As I was savoring the last moments of summer, the apples began to beckon from the orchard, and an idea struck me. What if I combined sweet, juicy honeycrisp apples with sharp white cheddar in an unexpected galette? This Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb has become my go-to for cozy gatherings and quiet evenings alike. The blend of flavors is nothing short of enchanting, and the flaky, buttery crust creates the perfect embrace for this delightful filling.
There’s something about the way the aroma of baked cheese and apples fills the kitchen that brings everyone running. With each golden slice, the rich tang of cheddar meets the sweetness of the apples, elevated by a hint of fresh thyme, turning this rustic dish into an extraordinary treat. Best of all, it’s impressively simple to prepare, making it an ideal recipe for those days when you crave a homemade dish without the fuss. Grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that will surely become a beloved staple on your table!
Why is Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb special?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet honeycrisp apples paired with sharp cheddar create an unexpected but delightful taste sensation.
Effortlessly Elegant: This galette offers a rustic charm that impresses guests while being simple enough for everyday enjoyment.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or a cozy night in, it fits any occasion seamlessly.
Quick Prep: With minimal chill time and straightforward steps, you can whip it up without feeling rushed.
Delicious Aroma: The combination of baking cheese and fresh herbs wafts through your home, drawing everyone to the kitchen.
Rediscover the joy of homemade comfort food with this delightful recipe that promises to be a hit every time you serve it!
Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb Ingredients
For the Dough
- Salted butter – ½ cup (113g) enhances the richness of the crust.
- All-purpose flour – 1¼ cup (150g), plus more for dusting—this forms the base of the flaky dough.
- Kosher salt – ¼ teaspoon brings out other flavors in the dough.
- Sugar – 1 teaspoon adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
- Sharp white cheddar cheese – ½ cup (2 oz), shredded, for a burst of flavor in the dough.
- Fresh thyme – 1 teaspoon, chopped—this herb adds a fragrant note.
- Vodka – 1 tablespoon (or buttermilk) aids in creating a tender texture.
- Ice cold water – 2–3 tablespoons (more if needed) helps bind the dough without overworking it.
For the Filling
- Sharp white cheddar cheese – ¾ cup (3 oz), shredded and divided; sprinkle on for that melty goodness.
- Honeycrisp apple – 1 large, cored and thinly sliced—this sweet apple is perfect for a bright flavor.
- Salted butter – 2 tablespoons, melted to toss the apple slices.
- Granulated sugar – 2 teaspoons, used to enhance the apple’s natural sweetness.
For Assembly
- Milk – 1 teaspoon, for brushing the crust and achieving a beautiful golden color.
- Flaky salt – just a sprinkle adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
- Honey – drizzle for that exquisite finishing touch.
- Fresh thyme – 2 sprigs, leaves only, to garnish and add a fresh pop of flavor.
Get ready to enjoy your homemade Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb that will have your senses dancing with delight!
How to Make Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, kosher salt, sugar, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh thyme. Cut in the salted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about 2-3 minutes.
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Form and Chill Dough: Gather the dough, forming it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to ensure a flaky crust.
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Prepare Apples: Core and thinly slice the honeycrisp apple. In a bowl, toss the apple slices with melted butter and granulated sugar, allowing the sweetness to enhance their flavor. Set aside.
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Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 10–12-inch circle, keeping it even for a uniform bake. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Layer Ingredients: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar in the center of the crust, leaving a 2-inch border. Fan or circle the apple slices on top, then finish with the remaining cheddar for that cheesy, melty goodness.
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Fold Edges: Fold the edges of the dough over the apple filling, creating pleats as you go to maintain a rustic look. Brush the exposed crust with milk and sprinkle with flaky salt for added flavor.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the galette is golden brown and the apples are bubbling with flavor.
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Finish and Serve: After baking, drizzle the galette with honey and sprinkle fresh thyme on top before slicing. Enjoy all the deliciousness!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb
Room Temperature: Enjoy your galette fresh for up to 2 days stored in a cool, dry place, loosely covered to maintain its flaky texture.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, refrigerate your Apple Cheddar Galette for up to 3 days in an airtight container to preserve flavors and prevent drying out.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, freezing for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen for a delightful treat!
Reheating: To enjoy your galette warm again, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15–20 minutes until heated through, ensuring the crust remains crispy.
Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb Variations
Feel free to explore and customize this recipe to match your taste preferences or dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or fontina for a unique flavor twist that suits your palate.
- Herb Infusion: Swap fresh thyme for rosemary or sage to add a different herbal note to the filling, elevating the dish’s aroma.
- Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup instead of honey for drizzling, introducing a warm, rich sweetness to the galette.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the apple slices before baking, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Caramelized Apples: Sauté the apple slices in a bit of brown sugar before assembling for an extra indulgent caramel flavor. The contrast of sweet, soft apples will take your galette to another level.
- Chili Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes into the cheddar for a delightful spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the apples.
- Fruit Medley: Mix in slices of pear or berries along with the apples for a fruit medley that celebrates seasonal flavors.
Get creative and have fun personalizing your Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb to make it uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
Making the Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply make the dough as instructed, wrap it tightly in plastic, and chill. You can also slice the apples and toss them with melted butter and sugar, storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours to keep them from browning. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, add the prepped apple filling, and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have the same delicious galette with minimal effort when it’s time to serve!
Tips for the Best Apple Cheddar Galette
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Chill the Dough: Ensure your dough is well-chilled for at least 30 minutes. This will help it stay flaky during baking and prevent shrinkage.
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Apples Matter: Use a sweet variety of apple, like honeycrisp, for optimal flavor. Avoid mushy apples to ensure a perfect texture.
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Don’t Overwork Dough: Mix the dough just until it holds together. Overworking can lead to a tough crust instead of a light, flaky one for your galette.
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Layer Wisely: Sprinkle half of the cheddar in the center before adding the apples. This prevents the apples from making the crust soggy.
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Golden Finish: Brush the crust with milk for a beautiful golden color and sprinkle flaky salt to enhance contrasts in flavor.
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Serve Warm: Enjoy your Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb warm for the best flavor and melting cheese experience!
What to Serve with Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb?
For a perfect meal pairing that enhances your delightful galette, let’s explore a selection of side dishes and drinks that will elevate your dining experience.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh, tangy salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the galette, providing a refreshing contrast.
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Savory Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and Brussels sprouts add an earthy note and texture, harmonizing beautifully with the apple and cheese.
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Creamy Potato Gratin: The creamy texture of this dish adds a luxurious feel to your meal while balancing the flaky crust of the galette.
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Apple Cider: A glass of chilled apple cider brings out the flavors in the galette, making it a delightful accompaniment that echoes its ingredients.
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Charcuterie Board: A selection of cheeses, nuts, and cured meats adds richness and variety, inviting guests to mix and match flavors with each bite.
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Honey Vanilla Ice Cream: Treat yourself to a scoop of this ice cream after your meal; its sweetness and creaminess pair wonderfully with the tartness of the apples.
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Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa mixed with fresh herbs offer a wholesome side that complements the galette’s savory notes while adding a nutty flavor.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: For a refreshing drink, sparkling water with a hint of lime cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing your overall dining experience.
Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the Apple Cheddar Galette?
I recommend using sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples for this galette. Honeycrisp apples provide a delightful balance of sweetness and crispness, while Granny Smith offers a slightly tart flavor that complements the sharp cheddar beautifully. Just ensure they are firm and fresh, avoiding any that are soft or have dark spots all over.
How should I store leftovers of the Apple Cheddar Galette?
If you have leftover galette, simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain the crust’s flakiness, reheat it in the oven rather than the microwave to avoid sogginess—just warm it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Can I freeze the Apple Cheddar Galette? What’s the best way to do it?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, which prevents freezer burn. You can freeze your Apple Cheddar Galette for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, there’s no need to thaw—simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake frozen slices for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
I’m having trouble with the crust being tough. What can I do?
If your crust turns out tough, it could be due to overmixing the dough or not enough chilling time. To prevent this, try mixing the dough just until it holds together and ensure you chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This gives the butter a chance to firm up, which creates that beautiful flaky texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes, you definitely can! For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free cheese that melts well in place of cheddar. For a gluten-free crust, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure to check that the cheese is also gluten-free if you’re converting that aspect of the recipe.
Is it safe to feed my dog a slice of the Apple Cheddar Galette?
While it might be tempting, I advise against giving your dog any portion of the galette. The cheddar cheese can be too rich for them, and the sugar and butter content is not ideal for pets. Always stick to dog-safe treats and consult your vet if you’re unsure about specific human foods.
Delicious Apple Cheddar Galette with Crispy Herb Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine flour, kosher salt, sugar, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh thyme. Cut in the salted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gather the dough, forming it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to ensure a flaky crust.
- Core and thinly slice the honeycrisp apple. In a bowl, toss the apple slices with melted butter and granulated sugar, allowing the sweetness to enhance their flavor. Set aside.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 10–12-inch circle, keeping it even for a uniform bake. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar in the center of the crust, leaving a 2-inch border. Fan or circle the apple slices on top, then finish with the remaining cheddar.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the apple filling, creating pleats as you go. Brush the exposed crust with milk and sprinkle with flaky salt.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the galette is golden brown and the apples are bubbling with flavor.
- After baking, drizzle the galette with honey and sprinkle fresh thyme on top before slicing.